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Beirut, Lebanon

The Lebanese capital is a unique holiday destination and, once you’ve been, you can’t help but sing its praises. From the restaurants, rooftop lounges, luxury hotels and shisha cafes, to the mosques and monuments, it promises to be a memorable trip.

There’s no denying Lebanon’s turbulent past has left its mark, but Beirut’s famously hospitable residents don’t focus on that; they acknowledge their history, but look to the future. What you get as a result is an utterly modern city centre, from the European-style boutiques, cafes and courtyards of Place de l’Etoile to the hip venues of Gemmayze. And never far away are the carefully preserved historic sites, such as the Place Des Martyrs (Martyrs' Square) and the St George Maronite Cathedral. If you have enough time for a day trip from Beirut, you can visit other interesting historic sites, including the ancient city of Byblos.

There are also plenty of opportunities to get outdoorsy. Beirut is famous for being one of the few places where (depending on the season) you can ski in the mountains in the morning and be sunning yourself on the coast by the afternoon. The ski season runs from mid-December to early April. March is the best month to go, when the snowfall is more consistent.

The après-ski culture is rather different to Europe’s though – no one lingers in a lodge on the slopes drinking hot chocolate. Generally, once you’re done skiing, you head back to your home (or hotel) to relax and get ready for the evening. Beirut’s reputation as the nightlife capital of the Middle East is well deserved – you might find that you don’t see much of your hotel at all.

What to do in Beirut

Visit the National Museum of Beirut

The National Museum of Beirut is a peaceful place to while away a few hours. There are some incredible finds to enjoy, including a limestone sarcophagus dating back to the 11th century BC. You can also learn how the staff have protected the precious artefacts over the years.

Party in Gemmayze

For the best of Beirut’s nightlife, skip the glitzy clubs and explore this fun neighbourhood instead. It seems like every time you turn a corner, you find a street with ever-cooler nightlife venues, plus a host of quirky lounges and dining spots to keep your energy levels up.

Rue Gouraud
Gemmayze
Achrafieh

Ski in Mzaar

Skiing might not be the first outdoor pursuit you think of in the Middle East, but the pistes in Mzaar are not to be underestimated. If you fancy hitting the slopes, check out the InterContinental Mzaar resort, the most popular in Beirut. Mzaar has around 80km of runs for seasoned skiers and beginners.

Marvel at Our Lady of Lebanon

These stunning underground limestone caverns are like something out of a film and exploring them will make you feel like Indiana Jones. You can see the upper gallery on foot, and take a dramatic boat trip through the lower levels. Unfortunately, you’re not allowed to take photos in the caves.

Explore Jeita Grotto

These stunning underground limestone caverns are like something out of a film and exploring them will make you feel like Indiana Jones. You can see the upper gallery on foot, and take a dramatic boat trip through the lower levels. Unfortunately, you’re not allowed to take photos in the caves.

Chill at Edde Sands Hotel and Wellness Resort

This Byblos beach club and resort is much quieter than some of the Beirut’s other venues, but that’s not a bad thing. Without the noise of the jet skis and the party people, you’re free to rent a luxurious cabana, relax and soak up the views.

Where to eat in Beirut

Jai (South-east Asian)

This popular restaurant is rather cosy, with just a handful of tables, but despite its small size, it packs a big punch. Located in a quiet area of Hamra, the sizzling hot dishes are delicious. Expect all the classic south-east Asian dishes, from fried noodles to curries. Jai delivers and offers take-out too.

St. Elmo’s (American)

You can find something a little different if you head to St. Elmo’s, a restaurant in the popular Zaitunay Bay area. They serve amazingly fresh New England fare including clam chowder, lobster rolls and traditional fish and chips, with great views of Beirut Marina.

Souk El Tayeb (Farmers’ Market)

This farmers’ market and cafe is a great place to pick up some fresh produce and hang out with the locals. Try some of the best Lebanese cuisine in the city at Tawlet, where, each day, a different chef from a different part of the country cooks lunch.

Indigo on the roof at Le Gray (Mediterranean)

This chic restaurant on the rooftop of elegant hotel Le Gray is the perfect place to spend a balmy summer evening. The menu focuses on Mediterranean fare, and guests can relax by the hotel’s poolside after eating.

Centrale Beirut (French)

Located in a gorgeous building on Mar Maroun Street, the setting of Centrale Beirut is a huge draw, with an interior designed by renowned architect Bernard Khoury. And, importantly, the food and service more than match up to the location. After dinner, take the lift up to the lounge.

Casablanca (Fusion)

One of the original fusion restaurants in Beirut, this elegant spot by the sea is very popular, so it's best to book ahead. Grab a table with a view and tuck into the excellent East meets West cuisine. After a fast-paced weekend in Beirut, there's nothing better than Casablanca's Sunday brunch menu.

Abd el Wahab (Lebanese)

No trip to Beirut would be complete if you didn’t spend at least one evening filling yourself with mezze. Abd el Wahab is popular with both locals and visitors, thanks to its elegant surroundings, lively roof terrace and big portions. Be sure to reserve a table.

Places to stay in Beirut

Saifi Urban Gardens

For a budget stay in Beirut, look no further than this cheap and cheerful hostel. There are private rooms, suites and dorms, and your stay includes free breakfast and Wi-Fi. There’s a hip rooftop lounge where you can mingle with fellow travellers, and it’s a great location for exploring nightlife hub Gemmayze.

Monroe Hotel

A perfect budget hotel for young travellers, this is a popular spot with the city’s fun-loving crowd. It’s named after Marilyn Monroe, and the matching vibe is one of California glam meets 1960s pop art. When you book, ask for a room with a view of the Beirut Marina.

Le Gray

Located within walking distance of the Place des Martyrs (Martyrs’ Square), Mohammed Al Amin Mosque and Gemmayze, Le Gray is a great base for sightseeing. The restaurants and lounges are top notch and the service is impeccable. Best of all, there’s a rooftop infinity pool where you can soak up the sun, along with tremendous views of the city.

InterContinental Mzaar Mountain Resort & Spa

If your main reason for visiting Lebanon is skiing, head to the InterContinental located in the heart of Mzaar’s ski complex. The views of the slopes are spectacular, and there’s a lovely spa to soothe your post-ski aches and pains.

Hotel Albergo

This elegant boutique hotel is a restored mansion located in the old quarter of the city. When you’re not relaxing in one of the spacious suites or next to the rooftop terrace pool, the hotel organises regular tours of the sights including trips to Jeita Grotto and Harissa.

Four Seasons Hotel Beirut

Not only does this luxury hotel have an enviable position on Beirut’s Corniche, it also offers guests a free limo service when they want to head downtown. Be sure to ask for a room with a balcony when you book, to make the most of the stunning vistas.
1418 Professor Wafic Sinno Avenue
Minet El Hosn
2020 4107
+961 1 761 000
fourseasons.com/beirut

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